Integrated Marine Ecosystem Management: A Learning Evaluation
Summary — This report evaluates the Integrated Marine Ecosystem Management (IMEM) activity, a USAID-funded project in Haiti and the Dominican Republic. The evaluation focuses on the activity's effectiveness in helping communities address environmental challenges and promoting sustainable practices in coastal and marine ecosystems. It highlights IMEM's achievements in protecting natural resources, engaging local communities, and fostering inter-institutional collaboration.
Key Findings
- IMEM interventions achieved desired results, especially in engaging local fishers and communities.
- Participatory and adaptive management approaches were successfully implemented.
- Fisher and rice producer associations were formed and strengthened.
- Training programs and dialogue platforms facilitated community involvement.
- The identification card program for fishermen's association members promoted a sense of belonging and unity.
Full Description
The Integrated Marine Ecosystem Management (IMEM) activity, funded by USAID, aimed to strengthen local governance and participatory management of marine protected areas in the northern coastal border area of Haiti and the Dominican Republic. Implemented by Counterpart International from September 2019 to September 2022, the project sought to promote sustainable fishing and farming practices to reduce pressures on biodiversity within coastal and marine ecosystems. The evaluation provides an analysis of the activity’s effectiveness in helping communities address environmental challenges and promoting sustainable practices. It reveals that IMEM has achieved significant milestones in its efforts to protect and preserve natural resources, engage local communities, and foster inter-institutional collaboration, particularly in the Dominican Republic.